Caribou Coffee launches

US coffee chain Caribou Coffee lodges into Dubai's financial hub, with plans to open 12 stores in the UAE by the close of this year

US chain, Caribou Coffee, has taken its first step in its Middle East expansion plan with the recent opening of its flagship outlet at Dubai’s International Financial Centre. Having joined forces with Al Sayer Group of Kuwait, the chain plans to open 12 stores in the UAE by the end of the year. The Arabian Coffee Company, master franchisees for the coffee chain, plans to have 250 locations in the region within the next ten years. “We are well aware of the Middle Eastern traditions and its passion for drinking coffee. It is primarily these nuances that were a great motivation factor for us to introduce Caribou Coffee to the Gulf region,” explained Ammar Daoud, general manager, Arabian Coffee Company. Headquartered in Minnesota, USA, Caribou is the second largest US speciality coffee company, with over 4000 employees at 425 outlets across 13 states. Established in 1992, its first coffeehouse opened in Minneapolis. The outlet in Dubai is designed to reflect a wood lodge, with the interior inspired by views of Alaska. “Since Dubai is considered the trend capital of the region, this coffee shop will enable us to lend the Caribou touch to an age old coffee drinking tradition,” said Christopher Rich, vice president of global franchising for Caribou Coffee. The menu at the new outlet includes classics such as cappuccinos, lattes and mochas, as well as beverages unique to the brand such as Caribou Coolers and Turtle Mochas, made with caramel, hot chocolate, whipped cream and pieces of Snickers.